CC creams are the unsung heroes of your makeup bag and here's why

Mental health advocate, professional oversharer, tree hugger and makeup obsessive. Will try anything weird and wonderful in the name of wellness and beauty.

Tuesday 12 May 2020

We're the first to admit that the world of alphabetical skincare creams can get a little confusing. From BB creams to CC creams and even DD creams (which, for the uninitiated, stands for 'Daily Defence' and adds SPF into the mix), the options are overwhelming and getting to the bottom of which will deliver what you're looking for can be exhausting. But worry not, we've gathered all the info you need to navigate between the BB's, CC's and even the DD's.

Although the difference between BB creams and CC creams is subtle to the naked eye, the way they are developed is often not the same. The idea behind CC is that they contain pigments that help with colour correcting. In fact, these products are specifically designed to conceal, and sometimes treat, redness or sallowness.

They work by neutralising unwanted shades from our skin tone by introducing a little colour wizardry. Shades that sit opposite each other on the colour wheel cancel each other out. Green will take away redness, orange can counteract blueness (hence the use of salmon concealers by makeup artists) and lavender will help to erase yellow tones.

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This is why they can be ideal for acne-prone skin, as many are specifically designed to camouflage the redness in spots. It's why they'll help to brighten dull complexions by seeing off sallowness, too.

Plus, if you're using the lockdown to give your skin a break from full coverage foundations, CC creams can be an ideal alternative, offering just enough coverage without feeling heavy on the skin or clogging up pores. Simply blend into skin, starting with the centre of the face or any areas of discolouration to provide a more even base, and add a little concealer to specific areas if needed.

if your skin that needs a little extra help, the hydrating ingredients, including aloe barbadensis, leaf water and hyaluronic acid, will give skin a moisture boost, while vitamin E protects against environmental factors.

A little different from the norm, this CC cream doesn't offer any coverage. Instead, it has two forms of potent vitamin C which help to brighten skin and fade hyperpigmentation and dark spots – and that’s how it colour corrects for every skin tone.

This sheer formula is best for those with mature or dry skin who need an extra hit of hydration to keep their skin comfortable all day. Wear alone for a no-makeup makeup look or under foundation as a first-step colour correct.